Author Question: A nurse suspects that her patient, who has diabetes, may also be suffering from depression. What ... (Read 57 times)

tichca · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

A nurse suspects that her patient, who has diabetes, may also be suffering from depression. What patient statement might lead to the nurse to suspect depression?

1. I'm concerned about the swelling in my ankles.
2. I'm tired all the time and I really hate my life.
3. My spouse and I can't seem to agree on anything.
4. Growing old is hard. Have you got a pill for that?

Question 2

A patient tells the nurse of concern that the patient's spouse might be suffering from dementia. The patient describes the spouse as experiencing memory loss.

What other indicator described by the patient or caregiver would indicate the need for further evaluation for dementia?
1. Pain
2. Insomnia
3. Depression
4. Personality changes

jordangronback · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: 2
Explanation: Depression is a pervasive condition that affects all aspects of a person's functioning. Fatigue, malaise, and dissatisfaction with life indicate the need for a depression screening. Swelling of the ankles should be evaluated, but is not an indication of depression. Complaining about the spousal relationship alone does not indicate depression. Complaints about aging are not necessarily indicative of depression.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: 4
Explanation: Memory loss alone is not sufficient for a diagnosis of dementia. Other symptoms can include difficulty expressing or understanding speech, organizing thoughts, making plans or carrying out complex behaviors, personality changes, behavioral problems, and psychiatric symptoms. Pain is not a symptom of dementia. Although depression and insomnia may be present in dementia, they are not part of the diagnostic criteria.